by Sr. Rita Kelly MMM                                    Ireland                            24.09.2025

How often do we hear that AI is taking over the activities of Human Beings? But is that so? With every new technology, there are positives and negatives. I would like to explore my limited understanding of AI. According to Google the definition of AI is the following:
“AI is a branch of computer science that develops machines and software with human like intelligence.”

But is human intelligence the only factor we need in this world of ours? What about compassion, love, discernment and wisdom? Looking at the state of the world, at the moment, I would say these are the values that we, humans beings need. Let us explore a few of our present-day realities.

First, parenthood. Who could replace the love a parent has for a child. The love the child needs to grow and nurture. Isaiah asks the question and the LORD responds:
“Can a woman forget her own baby and not love the child she bore?  Even if a mother should forget her child, I will never forget you”(Is 49:15).

No matter the economical background, research tells us when a child experiences a stable loving family, he/she has a good foundation for life. Could Ai supply that love?

Yesterday, I attended the parish church for Mass. Children from the local primary school was attending the Mass for the start of the new School year. One could only admire the patience of the teachers and SNAs (Special Needs Attendants) in organising the children, attending, correcting and caring for about 80 boys and girls of 9, 10 and 11years old. I don’t know how AI could manage such a lively group?

Throughout the years I practiced as a community health nurse in hospitals and communities in different countries. The WHO (World Health Organisation) definition of Health is the physical, social, mental and spiritual well being of a person. One learnt to respond, not only to the medical needs of people, but to their social, mental and spiritual needs. AI will be helpful in diagnosing but certainly will never be able to give the love and compassion.

In the above three examples of parenthood, education and health I have no doubt that AI will be helpful. for example, supporting parents in shopping, helping in drawing up educational plans for teachers and diagnosing for the health professionals. But, the listening, caring, compassion and love will always be needed. AI is a positive tool which will enhance our lives, it is to know when and how to use it is the question.